Brits not as healthy as they think

The majority of people in the UK deem themselves to be fit and healthy despite the fact that most are not meeting the government's minimum exercise and dietary recommendations.

The findings are the result of a survey commissioned by The Gym Group which explores people exercise and dietary habits. When questioned whether people felt they were 'fit', 54% answered 'yes'. This is despite the fact that only 17% are achieving the government's recommended target of five exercise sessions per week. Shockingly, a quarter also admit to participating in no physical activity whatsoever.

Price of gym membership is the number one reason people cite for not exercising more, but how expensive is it and, is it not more about how people chose to spend their disposable income? A membership at The Gym, the UK's largest national budget chain, is less than half the price of satellite television subscription at less than £20 per month.

John Treharne, CEO of The Gym Group, says: "It's shocking that such a  high percentage of people are not exercising enough to maintain a basic level of physical fitness. Working out in a gym is not the only solution to an active lifestyle but it is one option. In the dark winter evenings, when it can be wet and cold outside, it provides a safe environment where expert advice is on hand to help. The Gym Group facilities are open 24 hours a day so it is easy to fit in visits around a hectic social, family and work schedule."

When it comes to diet, there also appears to be an imbalance between perception and reality.

The government advises '5 pieces of fruit or vegetables per day', but 46% of people questioned said that they eat less than 2 pieces of fruit per day and 30% eat less than 2 vegetables per day. This is despite the fact that only 18% of people class themselves as 'unhealthy' or 'very unhealthy'. Add to this the fact more than a quarter (29%) of Brits are consuming two or more takeaways per week and it becomes easy to understand why 73% also admit to wanting to reduce their body weight.

Treharne adds: "Small lifestyle changes can make a huge difference to health and the New Year is a perfect time to set personal fitness and dietary goals. I would urge anybody not currently meeting government guidelines to set a New Year's resolution to do so. Not only will this have a positive impact on physical health but it will also make you feel much better mentally. If you need help with goal setting, get in touch with The Gym Group and we will be happy to help."

For more information on The Gym Group and how to join, visit thegymgroup.com.